Iraqi President Signs Controversial Law on Official Holidays, Including Eid al-Ghadeer

On Tuesday, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid signed a law that outlines 11 annual official holidays for the Republic of Iraq. This new legislation, forwarded by the Iraqi parliament on Sunday, has ignited a debate because of the inclusion of Eid al-Ghadeer as a national holiday.

Eid al-Ghadeer, celebrated by Shiite Muslims on the 18th of Dhu al-Hijjah in the Islamic calendar, commemorates the Prophet Muhammad's final sermon at Ghadir Khumm. During this sermon, he appointed his cousin, Ali ibn Abi Talib, as his successor and the first Imam, a cornerstone of Shiite faith.

The inclusion of Eid al-Ghadeer as a national holiday has sparked controversy, particularly among Sunni Muslims, who see it as a negation of the rule of the first three caliphs. Sunni politician and former Parliament Speaker Osama al-Nujaifi criticized the move, calling it 'unpatriotic' and suggesting it might 'harm the national fabric. ' The parliament also designated 12 Rabia' al-Awwal to be Prophet Mohammed's birthday, aligning with the Sunni celebration.

Why this matters: This law highlights the ongoing sectarian divisions in Iraq and the challenges of balancing the interests of different religious groups. The inclusion of Eid al-Ghadeer as a national holiday may have significant implications for Iraq's political and religious environment, potentially exacerbating existing tensions between Sunni and Shia Muslims.

In an effort to address Sunni concerns, the parliament also designated 12 Rabia' al-Awwal to mark the Prophet Mohammed's birthday, aligning with the Sunni celebration. However, the Shia observance of the Prophet's birthday on 17 Rabia al-Awwal was not included in the official holidays calendar.

The new law, voted on by the Iraqi parliament on May 22, 2024, during session 26 of the first legislative term within the third legislative year, fifth electoral term, establishes 11 annual holidays in addition to the existing Friday and Saturday weekend breaks. The cabinet retains the authority to suspend Saturday, but not Friday, holidays under specific circumstances.

Friday holds a special place in most Muslim-majority countries, being considered the holiest day. Jumu'ah prayers, congregational prayers held at mosques, are mandatory for all practicing male Muslims who are able.

The signing of this law highlights Iraq's ongoing sectarian divisions and the challenges of balancing the interests of different religious groups. The debate over the inclusion of Eid al-Ghadeer as a national holiday highlights the complexities of Iraq's political and religious makeup, with the president playing a vital role in shaping the country's future.

Key Takeaways

• Iraqi President signs law establishing 11 annual official holidays.
• Eid al-Ghadeer, a Shia holiday, sparks controversy among Sunni Muslims.
• Law highlights sectarian divisions and challenges in balancing religious interests.
• Prophet Mohammed's birthday designated on 12 Rabia' al-Awwal, aligning with Sunni celebration.
• Law may exacerbate existing tensions between Sunni and Shia Muslims in Iraq.